Places & Day Trips
Hidden Gems of the Southern Lakes: Carcross, Tagish & Marsh Lake
6 min read
Hidden Gems of the Southern Lakes: Carcross, Tagish & Marsh Lake
Carcross: desert, lake, and mountain
The historic village of Carcross packs a startling amount into a small footprint. Wander the restored Carcross Commons with its First Nations carvings and shops, stand on the shore of Bennett Lake, and visit the Carcross Desert — a pocket of sand dunes often billed as the world’s smallest desert, left behind by an ancient glacial lake.
Emerald Lake
On the drive between Whitehorse and Carcross, pull over at Emerald Lake, whose impossibly green-blue water comes from light reflecting off white marl on the lakebed. It is one of the most photographed spots in the Yukon, and for good reason — stop for photos and simply to stare.
Montana Mountain and the trails
Above Carcross, Montana Mountain holds a world-class network of hand-built mountain-bike and hiking trails, much of it created by local First Nations youth. Even if you don’t ride, the area is superb for walking and views.
Tagish and Marsh Lake
Further along, Tagish and Marsh Lake offer beaches, boat launches, and quiet lakeside relaxation. In late spring, the open water at the north end of Marsh Lake draws swans by the thousands during migration — a spectacular, lesser-known wildlife event.
Making a day of it
The whole loop is easily done from Whitehorse in a day, but it rewards an unhurried pace. Pack a picnic, a swimsuit in summer, and a camera, and leave time to detour. Better yet, stay a night at a lakeside resort to catch the region’s dark skies and quiet mornings.
The Southern Lakes prove that in the Yukon, some of the best experiences are hiding just off the main route — close enough for a day, memorable enough to plan a trip around.
Frequently asked questions
How far is the Southern Lakes region from Whitehorse?
Carcross is about an hour’s drive south of Whitehorse, and the whole Southern Lakes loop makes a comfortable day trip.
Is the Carcross Desert really a desert?
It’s a small area of sand dunes left by a glacial lake, popularly called the world’s smallest desert. Technically it’s more of a rare dune ecosystem, but it’s a striking and fun stop.
Why is Emerald Lake so green?
Its vivid colour comes from sunlight reflecting off white calcium-rich marl on the shallow lakebed, producing intense turquoise and green hues.
Where to stay
Rooms worth pairing with this guide.
Ready to plan this trip?
Real prices for the places this piece names.
